Hey guys. I've got a 2018 RSG and like others out there I'm a little on the vertically challenged side of things. I'm 5'8" with a 30" inseam. I am curious about personal experiences with modified stock seats. I run 14" ape hangers that I had custom made with lots of pull back and my hands actually sit just below my shoulders. This is the most comfortable riding position for me due to an accident I had on another bike a couple years back. I have heard a lot about guys wanting to an in the bike vs. on the bike feel. This sounds good, but how does that work with say - rodeo riding or slow speed handling? I like to ride cone courses with some friends occasionally, so having good control in the lots is essential to me. I also ride the twisties in NC quite a bit so a seat that works for aggressive cornering is a plus as well. I had a softail years back with a solo seat but that isn't an option anymore.

Just looking for those who have similar experiences. Thanks!!

 

I also have a 30" inseam and both the stock seat and now my Saddleman Road Sofa have worked fine for riding my 08 RG. With my boots, I can flat foot, in shoes, I pick a foot.

 

30" inseam is average, I wouldn't say you're vertically challenged. You just have long legs for your height!

What are you using now? If whatever you're on currently allows you to control the motorcycle well, why change?

"On the bike", specifically forward toward the tank and an upright, or slightly forward torso, is going to be your best for slow speed handling.

Sometimes I wish I had a 30"-32" inseam. Instead, having 37" legs creates a whole new set of issues on these bikes.
But the grass is always greener....

 

LOL. Yeah I suppose you are right. The seat I have is a stock seat from my 13 Street Glide. Foam is a little worn and on the RG its a tad too far from the bars. Considering pushing me forward about 1.5 inches and maybe having it narrowed. It works ok, but not as good as it did on the SG. I know, same chassis but it feels diffent. I traded seats with my buddy's seat and his pushed me forward a little and was narrow. Unfortunately his was a mustang that was way way out of my budget.

 

One of the "reach" seats might work for you, Harley has some I bet you could demo at a dealer.

I would suggest the police seat and shock setup if you really want to improve your low speed handling, but that's going to raise you a few inches from where you are now, although it does put you further up on the tank. Others here with 30" inseams run them and just slide forward a bit before stopping, no issues. You can also get the Mustang seat for the police bracket (or maybe it comes with its own bracket?), that lowers and moves the seat a bit rearward, better for shorter riders, but still better for handling than the typical low and back frame mounted seats.